Boothroyd's Bouazza Bonus

Watford manager, Aidy Boothroyd has received a timely boost as he begins preparations for next Tuesday's important Barclays Premiership clash with fellow strugglers Sheffield United, with the news that Hameur Bouazza's injury is not as bad as first feared.

The flying Frenchmen left the Fratton Park pitch in agony on Saturday following a physical challenge by Portsmouth's David Thompson, and although the player suffered severe swelling no long term damage has been caused.

Boothroyd is already definitely without regular first choice goalkeeper, Ben Foster after the club revealed he underwent an operation on a troublesome knee yesterday.